Online scams are becoming increasingly common, and anyone can fall victim if they’re not cautious. A recent case from Ludhiana highlights how scammers use clever tactics to cheat people. Sarabjit Singh, a postmaster from the Halwara post office, lost approximately Rs 87,000 while trying to secure a loan through a mobile application.
Sarabjit, a resident of Kaille village in the Sudhar area, had applied for a Rs 2 lakh loan on November 27 through the Flipkart mobile app. On December 4, he received a call from someone claiming to represent the app. The caller informed him that his loan was approved but could not be transferred because his KYC details were incomplete.
How the Scam Unfolded
The scammer sent Sarabjit a link, instructing him to fill out an online form and pay Rs 5 as a KYC charge. Following these instructions, Sarabjit clicked the link, filled out the form, and attempted to pay the small fee. However, shockingly, Rs 86,998 was debited from his bank account instead.
“I immediately called the person who asked me to complete the KYC process. He picked up the call; however, as soon as I questioned him about it, the man disconnected the call and then switched off the number,” Sarabjit explained, as reported by TOI.
Realising he had been scammed, Sarabjit filed a complaint with the Jagraon police. The case was then transferred to the cybercrime police station.
How to Protect Yourself from Such Scams
To safeguard yourself from online scams, always verify the source of any calls or messages. Never share sensitive information unless you are confident of the authenticity of the request. Moreover, be cautious of links from unknown numbers or sources.
For those looking for legitimate offers and deals online, visit Looffers.com to find verified discounts and offers that can save you money without the risk of scams.
Stay informed and vigilant to protect your hard-earned money from online fraudsters!
